While the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers battle it out for a World Series title, the rest of the league is starting to think about how to make their team better over the winter. Free agent rumors are starting to circulate, and there have been multiple trade suggestions that could shake up the league.
The Athletics come into the offseason after having one of the best seasons they have had in years. Although it did not lead to a postseason berth, there is still a lot to be excited about.
Nick Kurtz looks poised to win AL Rookie of the Year after his monstrous season, but he is not the only one who has their hat in an awards battle. Tyler Soderstrom has been named a Gold Glove finalist after making the switch to the outfield.
The A's are starting to build their foundation, but they can further strengthen it over the winter and emerge even stronger. Look for them to add a few arms and potentially another bat to help generate more runs.
Athletics deemed potential fit for three-time batting champ, per MLB insider
One player to watch out for over the next few months is Luis Arraez. The three-time batting champ is an unrestricted free agent, and MLB insider Jim Bowden gives him a two-year, $30 million contract prediction.
Given the small nature of the contract, Bowden believes he could be a great fit for the A's. Arraez could help put the ball in play and would complement players like Nick Kurtz and Brent Rooker.
However, that is not the only team that has been listed as a potential fit. Bowden also views the San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates, Colorado Rockies, Chicago White Sox, and Los Angeles Angels as other teams that could use Arraez's skillset.
More Athletics news:
- Ex-MLB GM views the Athletics as a potential fit to acquire former Reds closer
- Athletics could be in play for Ryan Helsley after ex-MLB GM's contract prediction
- Athletics could be at play to sign Yankees reliever during the offseason
- Athletics' Nick Kurtz earns AllSportsPeople AL Rookie of the Year Award
- Athletics' Tyler Soderstrom eyes first Gold Glove following position change